Pirates Pitcher Visits Local Little League Practice on Off Day

Paul Skenes stopped at an Ingomar Little League field in the northern Pittsburgh suburbs on Monday during an off day. The 24-year-old pitcher, who stands 6-foot-6 and weighs 260 pounds, had been driving when he noticed the lights of a baseball field.

He parked, walked onto the field in sandals and casual clothes, and joined several youth teams for practice. Over the next two hours, Skenes played catch and signed autographs for the players.

Skenes said the visit reminded him why he began playing baseball. "I went to watch some baseball, but you got to remember it's just a game," Skenes said. "There's a lot of things that make it a business. " The moment was recorded and shared on social media by his girlfriend and a local disc jockey.

The Pirates lost 12-2 to Los Angeles on Tuesday after Skenes allowed two runs over six innings. He struck out seven batters and limited hard contact, but the bullpen allowed 10 runs in the seventh inning. Skenes has not recorded a win in his last five starts despite a 4.50 ERA since May 17.